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Leyte continued
LST’s # 66,67,18,245,102 on 20 October 1944
While the Imperial Navy was floundering in their attempts to halt the persistent invasion of Leyte, Gen. Yamashita was in his headquarters at Fort McKinley on Luzon. He was receiving very little information from his own people and upon hearing of the US landing, he was heard to say, “Very interesting. But where is Leyte?” [The Japanese general had only just been transferred from Manchuria.]
Yamashita did not feel that the Japanese all-out standing defense should be on Leyte and he refused to supply more troops to the island. But he was overruled. Gen. Terauchi, knowing that the island’s occupation by the Americans would divide their bases, so reinforcements would be sent in.
Yamashita Tomoyuki, 1945
21 October – Most of the Japanese beach defenses had been shattered by bombing and strafing and a majority of the 1st Battalion/16th Division had been wiped out. Parts of Tacloban had been liberated by the US troops and Gen. Makino was now forced to split the remainder of his 16th Div. in half, North and South Defense Forces.
As the ground forces continued fighting, Japanese aircraft from all other bases in the Philippines arrived on Luzon to support the plans for a counteroffensive.
airfield construction
25 October – Gen. Sosaku Suzuki, in charge of defending the Central Philippines, still was receiving inferior or misleading intelligence and remained confident of Japanese victory because: He still expected support from the Navy; he had glowing reports concerning Formosa; he was told that ALL US carriers had been sunk and no American aircraft were flying over his headquarters on Cebu. Suzuki told his Chief of Staff, Gen. Tomochika, “…we are about to step on the center of the stage. There is no greater honor or privilege.”
Two Japanese units were on en-route to Luzon: the Japanese 1st Division [the Gem Division] to land at Ormoc on the west coast and the 26th Division at Carigara in the north.
MacArthur surveys Leyte beach, 1944
MacArthur’s summary:
“The assault continued after a rapid consolidation of the first few days objectives. Numerous enemy counterattacks were beaten off in all areas during the next few days as advancing forces reported increased resistance on every front. By the end of the third day, over 2,000 Japanese had been reported killed…
“On 24 October, elements of the XCorps began a drive up the Leyte side of San Juanico Strait, while farther south other units of the Corps pushed westward. At the same time, the XXIV Corps directed attacks northward and westward. The 96th Div., moving inland from Dulag, met heavy opposition from fortified positions on Catmon Hill, a terrain feature dominating the division’s zone of action and giving protection to enemy mortars bobbing shells toward the assault shipping in Leyte Gulf. Catmon Hill was initially by-passed, then neutralized by naval guns and field artillery and finally cleared of the enemy by 31 October.”
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Military Humor –
“You’re doing it wrong.”
Practice aircraft carrier??
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Farewell Salutes –
Keefe R. Connolly – Markesan, WI; US Navy, WWII, PTO, Hospital Apprentice 1st Class, USS Oklahoma, KIA (Pearl Harbor)
Daniel Coons Jr. – Fort Madison, IA; US Army, WWII
Joe Chadwell Tullahoma, TN; US Army Air Corps, WWII, PTO, 11th Airborne Division
Charles A. Day – Redwood, CA; US Army, WWII, Korea & Vietnam, Colonel (Ret.)
Stanley L. DeWitt – Royal City, IN; US Army, Korea, Sgt., Medical Detachment/57th FA/ 7th Infantry Division, Bronze Star, KIA (Chosin Reservoir, NK)
Robert C. Martin – Lakemore, OH; USMC, WWII, PTO, radio/gunner, Putple Heart
Mortimer Goodkin – Short Hills, NJ; US Army Air Corps, WWII, ATO (Adak, AK)
Robert Killey Sr. – Elmira, NY; US Coast Guard
Reuben Klamer – Canton, OH; US Navy, WWII, PTO, V-7 program / boardgame developer
Michael T. MIles – Wikes Barre, PA; US Army
Joe R. Nightingale – Kalamazoo, MI; US Navy, WWII, PTO, Seaman 1st Class, USS Oklahoma, KIA (Pearl Harbor)
Elizabeth Thew – Hopeswell, VA; Civilian, WWII, Corsair cockpit construction / military librarian
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Leyte, Philippines begins
Leyte, Oct. 1944
20 October – the X and XXIV Corps of the 6th Army, under General Krueger, made their amphibious landing on a 25-mile (40 km) stretch of coastline between Dulag and Tacloban on the eastern side of Leyte.
At 0945, the 1st Cavalry went ashore on White Beach, the 24th Infantry Division went on their left at Red Beach and the 96th Infantry Division landed further south on Orange and Blue Beaches. They all moved inland for about a mile, hitting stiffer resistance as they went.
MacArthur observing the beach at Leyte
The 7th Infantry Division at Violet and Yellow Beaches had the lightest opposition, but Dulag was taken by the following day. MacArthur described the view he witnessed from the flag bridge of the USS Nashville:
“Landings are explosive once the shooting begins and now thousands of guns were throwing their shells with a roar that was incessant and deafening. Rocker vapor trails criss-crossed the sky and black, ugly ominous pillars of smoke began to rise. High overhead, swarms of airplanes darted into the maelstrom. And across what would have ordinarily been a glinting, untroubled blue sea, the black dots of the landing craft churned towards the beaches.
“From my vantage point, I had a clear view of everything that took place. Troops were going ashore at Red Beach near Palo, at San Jose on White Beach and at the southern tip of Leyte on tiny Pansom Island…”
Gen. MacArthur walking into the Philippines.
MacArthur became impatient and ordered a landing craft to carry him and President Osmeña to Red Beach for a dramatically staged arrival back to the Philippines. But the boatload of VIP’s and press were caught in a traffic jam of vessels making an effort to the same makeshift pier. The harassed beachmaster directed the VIP’s away and said, “Let ’em walk!” This more and likely is the reason for his surly expression in the famous photograph, despite him trying later to create a better one.
Mac went into the 24th’s area and sat on a log with Osmeña and a Signal Officer gave the general a microphone. The “Voice of Freedom” was back on the air and Mac gave his speech, “People of the Philippines, I have returned…” His aides noticed that the speech left him shaken and visibly moved.
By evening, a 17-mile beachfront was taken with only light casualties, but a serious enemy counter-attack came with Japanese torpedoes bombers that scored a hit on the USS Honolulu. Approximately 22,000 enemy troops were dug into their positions in the hills behind Tacloban.
The X Corps had unfavorable conditions in terrain and sporadic mortar and artillery fire which caused them to take 5 days to complete unloading. This however did not prevent them from the establishment of their beachhead.
MacArthur’s summary:
“The enemy’s anticipation of attack in Mindanao caused him to be caught unawares in Leyte and the beachheads of the Tacloban area… The naval forces consisted of the 7th US Fleet, the Australian Squadron and supporting elements of the 3rd US Fleet. Air support was given by naval carrier forces, the Far East Air Force, and the Royal Australian Air Force. The enemy’s forces include the 14th Army Group under Field Marshall Count Terauchi, of which 7 divisions have been identified – 16th, 26th, 30th, 100th, 102nd, 103rd and the 105th.”
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Current News – Happy 74th Birthday to the U.S. Air Force 9/18/1947
https://pacificparatrooper.wordpress.com/?s=air+force+birthday
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Military Humor –
“The situation in Iraq appears to be going well, gentlemen. THAT however, is a map of Staten Island.”
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Farewell Salutes –
James C. Barnhart – Somerset, PA; US Army Air Corps, WWII, ETO, Purple Heart / Korea, Purple Heart
A. Charles Casadonte Jr. – Herkimer, NY; US Army, WWII, ETO, Co. B/111 Medical Battalion
Keith Dunker – Dayton, OH; US Army Air Corps, WWII, Pt., pilot
Lester Flack – Guest, KY; US Army, WWII, 22 Infantry Division
Richard Gartee – Monroe, MI; US Navy, WWII
David M. Hardy Jr. – Tucson, AZ; US Navy, WWII, USS Louisville
Richard G. Hudak – Elizabeth, NJ; USMC, Vietnam, Captain
Teppo K. Jokinen – brn: Hyvinkää, FIN/ Everett, WA; Finnish Air Force
Paul Mazal – Loomis, CA; US Army Air Corps, WWII, ETO, P-47 pilot, Lt. # O-763693, 513/406th Fighter Group, KIA (GER)
Andrew Pellerito – MI; USMC, WWII, PTO, Cpl. # 355031, Co. K/3/2nd Marine Div., KIA (Betio, Tarawa)
Joseph C. Rouse – Riverside, NC; US Navy, WWII, PTO, Seaman 1st Class # 2624770, USS Oklahoma, KIA (Pearl Harbor)
Helen Scallion – Birmingham, AL; Civilian, WWII, B-24 & 25 electrical system construction
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Letter XIII Latrines
High class facilities in the Philippines, 1944
Back in the states, people were still dancing to the tunes of The Dorsey Brothers, Count Basie and Artie Shaw. They listened to the songs of Doris Day, the Andrew Sisters, Lena Horne and Rosemary Clooney. But, some others weren’t so lucky, in the army there was always latrine duty, as depicted in the following letter from Smitty.
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Letter XIII Latrines Wednesday 9/5/44
Dear Mom,
Many are the times you have heard me refer to the latrines. Never before had I any conception or realized the amount of genius and mathematical figuring that was necessary for the building of one of these casual looking comfort stations.
Yesterday I had the dubious honor of being selected, with four other disgruntled G.I.s, to labor on a detail whose sole aim and mission was the digging and building of a latrine. It seems that in order to get a latrine built correctly there also has to be present a lieutenant and a hard to please sergeant. Their presence is essential due to the fact that if they weren’t around, it would never get built, no less started and to supervise the completion and finesse details of the finer points necessary for sanitation and the comfort of the men. You can most generally find these two worthy in some far off spot, away from all the work.
slit trench
To begin with, a place is chosen suitable for a latrine, generally about a half mile from the nearest inhabitant and well hidden in the brush and woods. This is done for the very simple reason that it affords the stricken G.I. a chance to brush up on his long forgotten tracking and compass reading lessons, also the hike involved tends to make up for the many he has missed.
You wait then while the Lt., in a very business-like manner, marks out the length and width desired. When finished, he gives you a short speech on the importance of the detail and the time limit allotted, ending with: “Good digging fellows. I know you can do it, as you are the picked men!”
You pick up your shovels and picks and gloomily get to work. First, the picks are put into play loosening up the stubborn ground. Then, the shovels get to work removing the loose dirt, making sure to pile it evenly around the hole. This procedure is followed until finally you have now a hole six feet long by five feet in width with a depth ranging anywheres from six to eight feet. Try as you may to dig less than six feet, the sergeant always has a ruler handy which he guards with his life. One would think that a latrine hole that size would last forever, but as I found out, in the army — they don’t.
conventional pit latrine
Next step is to lower into this hole oil drums whose both ends have been removed. This end cutting process is something foreign to us as they had another detail doing that the day before. I understand though that it is a highly skilled job in that keeping the ax blades from chipping is quite a problem. These drums, once lowered and set side by side, draws to a close the crude laborious end of the job.
Boards, saws, hammers and nails now appear along with some overbearing would-be carpenters. They proceed to build a coffin-like box which looks more like anything else but a box. This affair, when finished, is fitted over the hole, covering completely the hole and part of the piles of loose dirt spread around the outer fringe. This type of latrine box is called the settee type. It is very comfortable to sit on if rough boarding isn’t employed. When the box is completed to the satisfaction and sitting height comfort of all present, holes are then cut in the top. These holes are oval in shape, but of different width and shapes. The rear end of a G.I.’s anatomy, I’ve found, has many varied shapes and sizes.
The next thing to put in an appearance is the latrine blind and screen. This is very simple, although at times men have leaned back into it and got tangled up in the canvas, bringing it where the blind should be. While the blind is being put up on a long pipe, funnel-shaped at one end comes up and demands a lot of detailed attention. The height of this pipe, when set, is a trial and tribulation to all and never satisfies all who use it. This funneled affair is intended for what all funnels are. The directing of a stream of water.
The Lt. and sergeant now come out of hiding, inspect it and proclaim it a job well done and worthy of their time and supervision, strutting off gaily chatting, leaving us to find our way alone, unguided and without a compass, back to our tents. We, in the building of this latrine were fortunate in that we only had to erect it once and it was the correct position. Generally, you dig three or four only to find out that it is out of line somehow with the next latrine a mile away.
Army pail field latrine
Generals, colonels and majors all visit while you are at work. Their presence is also needed for the fact that when they are around, you stand at attention and in that way get a moment’s rest. The captain generally comes out to see how you are doing and always tells you to hurry it up as the boys back in camp are prancing around like young colts and doing weird dance steps all the while hoping that they can hold out until its completion.
When once finished and back in camp, you are kept busy giving the boys directions as to where it is and then have to listen to them gripe about the distance away from their tent the blame thing is. It is, I have found out, a thankless detail and one I intend missing the next time there is one to be built. There are of course different types of latrines as the illustrations show, but most of those are for troops on the move. Now, why they should say, ‘troops on the move’ I do not know, for certainly no matter whether in the latrines or on the way to it, you are most certainly moving.
Before any G.I. finds the latrine, the flies are already there. No latrine is a latrine until after a family or two moves in. They too are necessary in that without them as an annoying element, some men would never leave, others would fall asleep, while others would use it as an indefinite hiding place from some hike or detail. Latrines are also necessary for rumors. Until a good latrine is built, rumors around the camp lay dormant. Many new and strange acquaintances are made and the souls of many a man have been saved while sitting in this sanctuary place of appeasement.
No place in the army gets the care and attention of a latrine. Orderlies are assigned daily to see to its cleanliness. Medical inspections are twice a week, while on Saturdays it has to stand a general inspection. It is the haven of good-fellowship, conversations and a relief to all men in the end.
Hoping I have portrayed for you the army’s version of a rest station, I’ll close, as the flies in here are very annoying and the fellow standing and waiting for me to leave is going into a rage and walking up and down all the while eyeing me up and down as if to kill.
Ending this in a hasty departure and on the run, I am always,
Your son, Everett
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Military Humor – Smitty’s artwork ! “When the WACs Take Over ? “
“Too much beer last night, Miss Pringle?”
“Damn these G.I. latrines”
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Farewell Salutes – In honor of the recently lost 13, Kabul, Afghanistan
The Marines were part of the 2nd Battalion/1st Marines, SSgt. Ryan C. Knauss of Corryton, TN was with the 82nd A/B Division
David Espinoza – Rio Bravo, TX; USMC, Lance Cpl.
Nicole L. Gee – Sacramento, CA; USMC, Sgt.
Darin Taylor Hoover – Salt Lake City, UT; USMC, SSgt.
Hunter Lopez – Indio, CA; USMC, Cpl.
Rylee McCollum – Jackson, WY; USMC, Lance Cpl.
Dylan R. Merola – Rancho Cucamonga, CA; USMC, Lance Cpl.
Karem Nikoui – Norco, CA; USMC, Lance Cpl.
Daegan William-Tyeler Page – Omaha, NE; USMC, Cpl.
Johanny Rosariopichardo – Lawrence, MA; USMC, Sgt.
Humberto A. Sanchez – Logansport, IN; USMC, Lance Cpl.
Jared Schmitz – St. Louis, MO; USMC, Lance Cpl.
Maxton Soviak – Berlin Heights, OH; US Navy, Corpsman (assigned to the 1st Marines)
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JUNGLE JUICE Letter X
K-P Duty
In Dobodura, New Guinea, the 457th began to notice severe shortages in their sugar supply. As it turned out, there was a major boot-legging operation in progress. With the absence of alcohol, the men felt necessity would be the mother of invention, but they were caught with their stills in production. The makeshift liquor companies were immediately put out of business.
My father had other ideas. The following letter was one I never tired of reading; it always gives me a chuckle or two. My father’s ingenuity was unfailing. He used to tell me, “If you think hard enough, there’s a solution to every problem.” After years of having tended bar, this was going to be right up Smitty’s alley.
Letter # 10 has been previously published by “Whistling Shade” magazine in 2007. I submitted it during their war story inquiry. And also, in The Miller Family’s “Soldiers’ Stories vol. 1”
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Letter X “Jungle Juice” Monday 7/17/44
Dear Mom,
The title of this letter, at first glance, will no doubt puzzle you, but I suspect at the end you will know more than you do now. Before going any farther with this, allow me to explain the whys and wherefores of its origin and purpose.
The Army has been telling us, for some time now, that any day (they mean year), they are going to issue us hot, dry soldiers some beer. They haven’t told us the percentages yet, but never fear, it will be 3.2. In the meantime, we’re here in New Guinea patiently awaiting the day. We know, because our eyes and nostrils do not lie, that there is good whiskey slyly floating about. Try as we may to lay hold of some, as yet, none have succeeded.
There is an old saying, told to me by a much older and wiser veteran of this man’s army that goes: “Take something away from a soldier and he will, in time, make or find a better substitute.” Hence and forever after – Jungle Juice.
To begin the making of this liquor substitute, one must first overcome a few minor details in order to secure the necessary equipment and ingredients. First: You may try to cultivate the friendship of the mess sergeant. This is easily accomplished if one is well endowed with currency. Second: You may try getting on guard duty and taking a chance of getting the job of protecting the mess hall. (The odds against this working out is ten to one against you.) This is the hard way of acquiring the friendship of the mess sergeant and we will continue. With your new buddy’s help, you now have in your proud and cherished possession a quantity of raisins, dried prunes or apricots and some sugar. (Very rarely will one come up with any yeast, so we will forget it.)
Now, we need something to put all this stuff into. To make matters worse, it cannot be metal and it must be waterproof. A nail barrel will do the trick, if we soak it in water, thereby allowing the wood to swell. You could go to the supply sergeant and get a saw, hammer, nails and boards, but in taking this route, you risk your supplier discovering your idea and you will have to pay him off with the promise that, when finished, he will receive a share. Not only is this undesirable, but now you will have to sit out in the hot sun and build a cask. My first suggestion of a nail barrel will not only save you labor, but also add an extra drink of this wonderful alcoholic beverage.
Now, we are ready to begin. Into the empty cask, put your fruit and sugar, making certain to add water. With your hands, (clean ones are advisable) stir everything around while crushing some of the fruit with your fists. This is what’s called the “rapid juice extraction process.” When finished, cover the cask with a clean piece of linen long enough to drape over the side. Here, you can also use a G.I. handkerchief or undershirt. (This is just a sanitary precaution and it in no way affects the product.)
Now, dig yourself a hole (under your bunk preferably) large enough to receive the cask and conceal it. This is a necessary precaution as the manufacture of Jungle Juice is frowned upon by the Army and especially you C.O. or Inspection Officer. The finding of such might cause embarrassment. This way it will only be found if someone should trip you C.O. and he inadvertently falls face down on the spot.
All you have to do at this point is use some self-control and patiently wait out the next two or three weeks as the fruit, sugar and water do their stuff. We all know from experience that you will only sit out two weeks, so let’s get on with the last step. Surely you have kept busy locating empty bottles and cleaning them, so dig up the cask.
To accomplish the final phase, it is wise to get your mattress cover and put it over a clean, steel helmet. You will find that the Army had supplied you with a damn good filter. The whole parts stay on top and the liquid freely pours through, without blemish to the helmet. Pour the juice into the bottles and seal with candle wax, making them air tight. Here is the most difficult step because by this time, not only your curiosity, but your craving for a taste is so high — you’re almost completely out of control. But, you must put your contraband away for one more week.
As the expected day approaches, I want to warn you to be on the lookout for newly acquired friends who start calling on you, regardless of the fact that they never came near you before. Yes, you are suddenly becoming the most popular guy in camp. When the hour approaches, marked as the time of reckoning, I would advise you to make up your mind that you are not going to finish it all in one sitting. Actually, this precaution is really unnecessary, as the Jungle Juice will decide that for you.
I won’t describe the taste. For some it is bitter and others say sweet. No two batches are alike and in fact the Juice has no opposition. Even its most adamant foes agree that for variety, the Juice has no equal.
This recipe is given free of charge.
I hope to hear your hiccupping in your next letter soon.
Your brewmeister son & never to be dry again, Everett
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General Swing decided, after the stills were destroyed, to bring ice cream machines and set up sports competitions. Teams were made up for volleyball, softball and tackle football. This proved not only to lift their spirits, but the activities kept them in top physical shape.
[ It always amazed me that such a letter as “Jungle Juice” made it through the censors without Smitty ever getting into trouble. His little operation was never discovered. ]
click on images to enlarge.
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HAPPY 271st BIRTHDAY TO THE U.S. COAST GUARD on 4 August 2021!!!
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Military Humor –
someone was drunk when they thought this one up!!
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Farewell Salutes –
Henry Bock – Saco, ME; US Army Air Corps, WWII, PTO, 11th Airborne Division
Stella Charron – Meriden, CT; US Army WAC; WWII
Dan Antion’s flag
Warren Durling – Kingston, NY; US Army Air Corps, WWII, ETO, Watton Air Base
Fred Farris – Hillsboro, TX; USMC; WWII, PTO, Sgt., Co I/3/2/2nd Marine Division, KIA (Betio, Tarawa Atoll)
Lawrence “Benny” Goodman (100) – W. London, ENG; RAF 617th Squadron, pilot
Harold W. Lindsey – Los Angeles, CA; US Navy, WWII, PTO, Seaman 2nd Class # 3822258, USS Oklahoma, KIA (Pearl Harbor)
Edward L. Queen – Baltimore, MD; US Navy, WWII, PTO, SeaBee, MGySgt.
Thomas J. Redgate – Brighton, MA; US Army, Korea, 1st Lt., Batt A/48/7th Infantry Division, KIA (Chosin Reservoir)
Eugene M. Skaggs – Anstead, WV; US Navy, WWII, PTO, Signalman, USS Oklahoma, KIA (Pearl Harbor)
Dale “Snort” Snodgrass – USA; US Navy, Captain, pilot ‘Top Gun’
Micah Walker – USA; US Army, Medical SSgt., 10th Special Forces Green Berets
Art VanDresser – Independence, KS; US Navy, WWII & Korea
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Letter VI – Land Ho! On the Port Side
Dobodura, New Guinea
Just as Smitty expected, their destination was quickly coming up over the horizon. The fleeting glimpse of solid land, Milne Bay, New Guinea was only a short stopover for water (such a disappointment) and they continued their cruise north. The 11th Airborne Division came upon the humming waterfront of ships manipulating to unload troops, supplies and equipment in Oro Bay. They witnessed a paradoxal view of organized chaos.
Down the rope ladders they went to the beach taxis, DUKWs (2 ton amphibious vehicles commonly called “ducks”) and onward to the awaiting shoreline. At latitude 8*52’60S and longitude 148*30’0E, this would become the first step for many a G.I. on foreign soil. Once they actually hit the beach, the heat seemed to slam into the troopers and their uniforms became soaked within minutes, but they proceeded on to the Buna-Dobodura area to make their new base camp.
July 1944. Sherfy, Johnson, Madam Queen, Roberts, Bachor, Wichmann, Amos, Andy, Hester, Baby Rastus”. By this time, Port Moresby was a secure back area of the Pacific theater.
As written in the Australian newspaper, The Canberra Times, 1944: “New Guinea was a country out of the Stone Age that was whizzed through the centuries. A country that had previously known only natives, grass huts and raw nature has been blitzed from all angles with every piece of equipment known to modern engineering and warfare … the skies are as busy as a beehive with bombers and fighters and transports.”
The 11th had entered the jungles amidst torrential rains, mud and heat. On their first day, the meals were prepared in Australian chuck wagons and the idea of fresh food would be a distant memory from the past. From here on out, everything would be canned, dehydrated or cured. Having come from the fishing town of Broad Channel, Smitty was accustom to eating seafood and was even teased in boot camp for liking the creamed chipped beef on toast (more commonly known as -“shit-on-a-shingle”), but those days were long gone. I remember him saying more than once, “It wasn’t that the powdered eggs tasted bad — they just didn’t have a taste.”
Although General Swing, commander of the 11th A/B, had contracted malaria and was hospitalized when his men shipped out of the U.S., he boarded a plane for Brisbane, Australia to attend a meeting with Gen. MacArthur. Swing was briefed on the immediate plans for his command and was reminded that the 11th A/B was considered a “secret weapon”, they would be in reserve for the New Guinea action though. Swing managed to be in Dobodura in time to meet his men as they disembarked.
Dobodura, New Guinea
Letter VI Land Ho! On the port side
Dear Mom, Well, land is in sight so I’ll just hold off this letter awhile until I can find out for sure if this is what we have all been waiting for or just another island…. Yep and yes siree this is finally it and from what I have seen up to now it is going to prove not only an interesting place, but picturesque as well. Don’t know yet if we can say where we are, so I won’t attempt it.
Everyone is standing along the railings with glasses while those less fortunate are straining their eyes trying to get a glimpse of our new and strange surroundings. It is all very exciting and thrilling and must say one gets sort of feeling down deep that is hard to explain. It might be that the sight of this long awaited place has sub-consciously awaked us to the fact that we are one heck of a long way from home.
Now that we are here in a port with a chance of possibly getting this letter mailed, I’ll close this letter and mail it as I know how anxious you must be about me and would like to hear from me as soon as possible. I promise you though that I will continue to write my letters like this and would like you to save them all so that when I get back I will have something to read back on and maybe remember.
I did finally get around to so don’t worry any on that account. I know how you worry about things like that so thought it best that you know. That is just about all there is for now, so with regards to all and hoping this letter is the answer to your nightly prayers, I’ll close with all my love and millions of hugs and kisses.
Your son, Everett
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Military Humor –
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Farewell Salutes –
Eldred ‘Mickey’ Alexander – Center, CO; US Army, WWII, ETO, 10th Armored Division
Stephen W. Babjar (100) – Albany, NY; US Navy, WWII, PTO, machinist’s mate, PT-27/Ron 1
Malcom J. Barber – All 3 brothers – New London, WI; US Navy, WWII, PTO
Leroy K. Barber – All 3 brothers were firemen, USS Oklahoma
Randolph H. Barber – All 3 brother were KIA (Pearl Harbor)
Raymond C. Blanton – Richmond, VA; US Army, WWII, ETO, SSgt., Co. C/1/60/9th Infantry Division, KIA (Hüftgen Forest, GER)
Robert Douglas – Lynn, MA; US Army, WWII, Sgt.
Forrest T. Frost (101) – Sanger, CA; US navy, WWII, PTO, Chief Engineer, USS YOG-76
Sam Lombardo – (101) – brn: ITL; US Army, WWII, ETO, / Korea & Vietnam, Lt. Colonel (Ret.)
Donald Rowley (101) – Christchurch, NZ; RNZ Air Force # 41192, WWII
Diana Seamans – New London, NH; US Navy WAVES, WWII, communications/code breaker
William B. Wagner – Dixon, IL; US Army, 505/11th Airborne Division
Jack K. Wood – Wichita Falls, TX; US Army Air Corps, WWII, ETO, 1st Lt., Distinguished Service Cross, 344/98/9th Air Force, B-24 navigator, KIA (Ploiest, ROM)
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Letter V / Army Birthday & Flag Day 2021
Passing the time aboard ship
Dear Letter V Yep! Still at sea
Mom, I was seriously thinking of tearing this letter up, as I couldn’t for the life of me locate an airmail stamp aboard ship. I kept at it though until finally fortune smiled down on me and success was mine. I have been pretty lucky so far at my card playing activities and should it hold out until we reach some civilized port, why I’ll be ahead and you will be pleasantly surprised when you receive my check for like amount. We can cable home money from abroad so might just as well take your advice — surprised? — and send it home for that day when we shall all return.
We have a large map of the world hanging up on the wall, which supplies us with as much amusement trying to figure out just where we are. According to figures, dates, times and patience, we should be hitting a port sometime real soon. In fact there is a rumor being whispered about that we will hit one tomorrow. Now this rumor comes from good authority seeing that it came from a fellow whose first sergeant is a second cousin to the uncle of the father of the first mate whose brother is third cook on this boat. Now, can’t you see why we are so glumly overjoyed? All kidding aside though, we should be nearing one soon.
We saw a movie last night down in the mess hall. It was quite an old picture, but luckily for me, I hadn’t seen it before, so therefore I spent my most enjoyable hour so far on this trip. The officers on this trip haven’t been having it quite as tough as us, but rough enough. In order to pass away their time they have taken up the game of badminton with a zeal and I must say have really kept at it until now this regiment can boast it has not only badminton players, but experts as well. By the way, I have also learned how to play the old card game of Cribbage. Ever hear tell of it before? Well mom, that is all for today, so once again I’ll sign off, but before I do, give my regards to all and I’ll write again soon.
Love and kisses, Everett
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Current News – 14 June 2021
Flag Day
U.S. Army Birthday
U.S. Army 246th Birthday
AND
U.S. 246th FLAG DAY
A previous post for these two special days! Click Here!
OR HERE!
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Military Humor –
Now I can’t stress the importance here!!
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Farewell Salutes –
Lloyd Alumbaugh – Jasper, MI; US Army, Korea, Sgt., Ambulance Co./7th Medical/7th Infantry Division, KIA (Chosin Reservoir)
Dalton Beals – Pennsville, NJ; USMC, Pfc., Co. E/ Parris Island
John Dale – Ellijay, GA; USMC, WWII, Korea & Vietnam, Sgt. (Ret.)
Kenneth R. Foreman – Brown County, OH; US Army, Korea, Cpl., Co. A/1/32/7th Infantry Division, KIA (Chosin Reservoir)
Warren C. Gillette – Klamath Falls, OR; US Navy, WWII, PTO, USS Oklahoma, KIA (Pearl Harbor, HI)
Mary Herda – brn: SCOT; Civilian, WWII, Boeing aileron production
Dorothy Jones – Tacoma, WA; Civilian, WWII, Fort Lewis Army Base Hospital
Jacqueline Jacquet Melvin – Lake Geneva, WI; US Navy WAVE, WWII, PTO, Lt., Flight nurse
Robert Risch – Brookings, SD, US Navy, WWII
Norbert Schatz (100) – Boonville, IN; US Army, WWII, cook
John J. Sitarz – Weirton, WV; US Army, WWII, ETO, Pfc., Co. L/3/110/28th Infantry Division, KIA (Hürtgen Forest, GER)
Thomas G. Wade – Burke, VA; US Army, Vietnam, Lt. Comdr. (Ret. 23 y.), 101st Airborne Division, Silver Star, Bronze Star, Purple Heart
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Camp Stoneman conclusion
POE Camp Stoneman
This photograph above was removed from a New York newspaper. The sign above the entry states: “Through these portals pass the best damn soldiers in the World.” The clipping beside it indicates shipping out dates. The 11th A/B departed May 5, 1944. Smitty said that this cruise would be the most boring part of his service, although he did become quite adept at playing cards during this time.
Smitty was unable to tell his mother that he and the 11th A/B would be shipping out the following day – destination and mission unknown. The men cruised from Suisan Bay into San Pablo Bay, into San Francisco Bay and under the Oakland Bridge to Oakland Mole where the Red Cross passed out coffee and donuts while they boarded the transport ships. So … back under the Oakland Bridge, thru San Francisco Bay and under the Golden Gate Bridge to the open Pacific.
Letter II Thursday 5/4/44
Dear Mom,
There really isn’t much to write about as I’ve told you most everything on the phone. By the way, when you receive your bill for the month let me know just how much these calls cost.
I heard from *Harley yesterday and it seems that he wants something to do and they just won’t give him anything. They have now made him landscape sergeant and I can just see him pulling weeds and taking care of flowers. If he should ever get his load on, he’ll nip out the flowers and let the weeds alone. I haven’t written to Woods yet, but give me time. I’ll get around to it before long.
We have to police up the area now, so will leave you for a while. Be back before long. — Hello again. We no sooner pick up the old cigarette butts and paper than some jerk behind you drops one so that cleaning up is getting to be a problem. Policing up is what is known as body bending exercise, head down, backsides pointing to the sky.
Well mom, that is all there is for now so take care of yourself and give my regards to all.
All my love, Everett
* Harley was a friend from back home in Broad Channel, now in the Army.
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Current News –
I hope all have been showing their thanks during Military Appreciation Month this year and will have a safe and commemorative Memorial Day on 31 May 2021…. and everyday!
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Military Humor – 
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Farewell Salutes –
Hugh R. Alexander – USA; US Navy, WWII, PTO, Lt. Commander, USS Oklahoma, Silver Star, KIA (Pearl Harbor)
Jack Barnes – Haskell, OK; US Navy, WWII, Vietnam, Senior Chief (Ret. 23 y.)
Arlington Cemetery
Leonard H. Crump – Indianapolis, IN; US Army, Korea, 187th RCT
Edward Geary – Tampa, FL; US Army Air Corps, Japanese Occupation, 11th Airborne Division
Henry L. Helms – Colleran, AL; US Army, Korea, Cpl., Co. D/1/32/7th Infantry Division, KIA (Chosin Reservoir)
John Knapp – Ottawa, CAN; RC Navy, WWII, ETO
Douglas Lowell – Pagosa Springs, CO; US Army, WWII, ETO, 97th Infantry Division, Bronze Star
Billy McDonell – CA & TX; US Army, Vietnam, 3/506/101st Airborne Division
Rosie – Annapolis, MD; US Coast Guard, Petty Officer 1st Class, Annapolis Station canine mascot,( her watch is over)
Gene Podulka – Glenview, IL; US Army Air Corps, WWII, weather forecaster
Robert Tatje – Brooklyn, NY; US Army, WWII, ETO, Combat Engineers
Richard Zeeff – Grand Rapids, MI; US Navy, WWII, aviation
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Camp Stoneman part 1
POE/POD Camp Stoneman
Pvt. Smith was as cocky and proud as the next trooper, but he also thought of the Army as a learning experience and considered his new adventure as a chance to experience things he would not otherwise have the opportunity and on April 23, 1944, he stepped off a train near Camp Stoneman, California. It was here the troopers would learn how to live aboard ship, operate life boats, raft kits and climb up and down rope ladders. Censorship of the soldier’s letters began here.
Camp Stoneman
The Inspector General’s men discovered the ruse of the 11th A/B Division hiding behind the paperwork of Shipment #1855 and the troopers began to accumulate AW104’s in record amounts. (Under the Article of War #104 – a commanding officer may give punishment, as is necessary, without the threat of court-martial.) May 2, the 11th A/B moved to Pittsburg, CA by way of inland boats to their actual POE/POD (Point of Entry/Point of Departure), and the letters from Smitty began …
Letter I Tuesday 5/2/44
Dear Mom,
I sure am a fine one after calling you Sunday especially to wish you a Happy Birthday and I go and forget to, but I assure you it wasn’t intentional, but just excitement of the conversation. I tried yesterday to buy a card, but to no avail. No doubt by the time you receive this letter you will be wondering why I didn’t call you this week as I promised I would. It just so happened that we were confined to our company area starting yesterday morning, so it was an impossibility to get to either a telephone or telegraph office. From now on all my letters to you will be numbered as this one is in the upper left hand corner. In that way, you can read my letters in sequence and can tell whether or not you are receiving all my letters. I would also advise sending all letters to me from now on by airmail as that will be the quickest way. We heard that not all the mail so far from here has yet been sent out, but when it does go out, why you will no doubt get them all at once. Tell everyone at home to be patient and they will no doubt hear from me as I sit down Saturday and either write a letter or card to everyone I know. You had better check up on them all and see that they have my correct address, as the army will notify only you of any new changes. I sure don’t want to lose out on my letters of anyone just because they have an incorrect address. Yesterday we didn’t do much of anything, but Sunday was really quite an entertaining day. We went bowling, then to a free USO show and from there to a movie. The entertainment is so full and alive that sometimes it still persists in your dreams. Therefore, you can really say they even take care of you while you are slumbering. Well mom, that is all for now, so once more I want to wish you a “Happy Birthday” and the best of everything. Don’t worry and keep your chin up.
Love, Everett
PS – Be on the lookout for a new Class E allotment I made out and also a B allotment. Your allotments now will come to 22 dollars cash and a $18.75 war bond a month. I’m getting pretty good, aren’t I?
Camp Stoneman souvenir
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Current News – Everyone helps out when it comes to finding the MIA.
Austrian Raimund Riedmann, pilot with the Flying Bulls, flies a restored P-38 Lightning
Austrian, Raimund Riedmann, a pilot with the Flying Bulls, flies a restored P-38 Lightning during a fly over event for a recovery team attached to the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency (DPAA), Austria, April 25, 2021. DPAA personnel arrived to conduct excavation operations in an effort to find a U.S. service member lost from a P-38 lightning that crashed during World War II. DPAA’s Mission is to achieve the fullest possible accounting for missing and unaccounted-for US personnel to their families and our nation. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Melanye Martinez)
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Military Humor – 
‘Lord, what have they done to him? He made his own bed!’
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Farewell Salutes –
Robert R. Arrowsmith – Livermore, CA; US Army Air Corps, WWII, PTO, Pfc., rifleman, Co E/511 PIR/11th Airborne Division
Carmen DePaulo III – Jacksonville, FL; US Army, Africa, Green Beret, Medical Sgt., 3rd Special Forces
John Foye Jr. – Lowell, MA; US Navy, Japanese Occupation
William Halliday – Scarborough, CAN; Queen’s Own Rifles, WWII, ETO
Sherman Hoffenberg – Delray Beach, FL; US Army, WWII, ETO, Military Police
Clifford S. Johnson – Valatie, NY; US Army, Korea, Cpl., HQ Co./57 FA/7th Infantry Division, KIA (Chosin Reservoir)
Joseph Kuba (100) – Struthers, OH; US Army Air Corps, WWII, ETO, Major (Ret.), 1264th Engineer Combat Battalion
Lindbergh Lopez – Niagara Falls, NY; USMC; WWII, Korea / US Army, Vietnam (Ret. 23 y.)
Ian N. Morosoff – Saquamish, WA; US Army, Pfc., Co. B/1/503/173rd Airborne Division
Robert Parker – Lansing, MI; US Army, WWII, PTO, pilot, 1st Lt.,35th FS/8th Fighter Group, KIA (New Guinea)
Lloyd Price – New Orleans, LA; US Army, Korea / singer
G. Clark Shaffer – Bloomsburg, PA; US Army Air Corps, Japanese Occupation, 5th Air Force
Bobby Unser – Albuquerque, NM; US Air Force, sharp shooter / auto racing champion
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Camp Polk
Entrance to Camp Polk
It took 22 trains and one week to transport the proud and cocky division to Camp Polk in the west-central area of Louisiana. This was the home of the armored forces and it would not take long for the two units to clash. But first, the 11th A/B planned to enjoy the improved living conditions and the 3.2 beer. They found time to “hit the town” and often it was a place called “Scotty’s,” just outside of Southern Pines.
Camp Polk 1944
The tank units, who called Camp Polk their home, did not take kindly to the new finely tuned troopers who were in the best shape of their lives (and they knew it!). The 11th A/B would often “unboot” the tankers when they were in town, forcing them to return to base barefoot and find their footwear neatly lined up in their barracks.
building a pontoon boat in Calcasieu Swamp
Beginning Jan. 10, the men underwent harsh training in preparation for the tests at the hands of the Third Army. The Louisiana Maneuvers began Feb. 5 with the troopers bivouacked near Hawthorne, LA. There were 4 tactical maneuvers lasting 3 days each. First, they jumped and marched immediately after. Then they attacked and defended using an attack sequence of “flags & umpires.” Finally, the “enemy” broke through and they would retreat. The weather in the Calcasieu Swamp was snow, hail, sleet and enough rain to swallow a jeep. The men joked that the camp should be a naval base. On Feb. 20, the 11th airborne division took and passed their infantry tests.
Everett Smith w/ unknown buddy, Camp Polk
About this time, Gen. Swing was pleased to be told that the troopers were being sent to the Pacific Theater and MacArthur would consider the unit his “secret weapon.” This turned out to be one reason for the lack of newspaper coverage for the division until they landed in the Philippines. I discovered this after an extensive search in the Australian library and newspaper archives.
Camp Polk
The 11th was restricted to base for one month. Swing decided the men should travel to their POE (Port of Exit/Entry) Camp Stoneman, CA incognito as Shipment # 1855 in an effort to bypass the Inspector General’s men. Orders were to look and act as a “straight-leg” unit; ALL paratrooper I.D. and clothing to be stowed away.
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News from home: The Banner (Broad Channel newspaper sent to servicemen) reports: NY Governor Dewey signed a bill that would allow fishermen of Jamaica Bay to shoot an unlimited amount of eels, but the shooting had to be done with bow and arrow. Smitty’s mom says: everyone is still trying to figure that one out.
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Fellow blogger, Carl D’Agostino at “i know i made you smile”, sent me his father’s pictures and information. Arthur D’Agostino had been with the 8th Armored Division. They were stationed at Camp Campbell, KY until 1943 when they were moved to Camp Polk, LA to prepare for combat. The division was sent to the European Theater on 5 December 1943, but Mr. D’Agostino was in recovery from surgery and was spared the journey. Carl’s blog can be found HERE.
Arthur D’Agostino
Unfortunately, the world lost Arthur R. D’Agostino, 97. when he passed away March 17, 2021. Served 8th Armored Division March 1943 – September – 1944. T-Sgt. Survived by his son, Carl, two grandchildren and 4 great children. An honest, upright, kind and generous man to all and the best father a son could ever hope for.
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Personal Note – I have recently noticed that I have lost links to blogs I follow. I can not imagine how it happened and I have recovered a few – BUT I do not know how many others this has happened to. Please contact me if I have not been on your site the past few weeks!!
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Military Humor from WWII’s Camp Polk –
Click on to enlarge.
Drill Instructor
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Farewell Salutes –
Chester Balinski – Highland Heights, OH; US Army, WWII / USMCR
Harold Bates – Rush Center, KS; US Navy, WWII, PTO, USS Oklahoma, KIA (Pearl Harbor)
Bobbie Ray Daniels (17) – Bedford, VA; US Army, Korea, Pfc., Co. F/2/5/1st Cavalry Division, KIA (Waegwan, So. Korea
Hubert Faure (106) – Neuvic, FRA; French Commandoes, WWII, ETO, Chief Warrant Officer, 1st Battalion, Fusiliers
Abigail Jenks – Gansevoort, NY; US Army, Spc., 1/319 Airborne Field Artillery/3rd Brigade Combat Team
Susanne Kostelnik – Dearborn, MI; Civilian, WWII, teacher at Willow Run Air Force School
Walter Mondale – Ceylon, MN; US Army, Korea / US Senator, Vice-President & Ambassador to Japan
Clayton Schenkelberg (103) – Carroll, IA; US Navy, WWII, PTO, Pearl Harbor survivor, (Ret. 30 y.)
Bernie Sippel – Morningside, IL; US Army Air Corps, WWII, PTO, Capt., C-46/C-47 pilot, 64/433rd Troop Transport/ 5th Air Force
Wallace Taylor – Louisville, KY; US Army Air Corps, WWII, MSgt. / Korea, 38th Ordnance Co., Colonel
Ernest N. Vienneau – USA; US Army Air Corps, WWII, ETO, 2nd Lt., B-17 co-pilot, 340/97 BG/15th Air Force, KIA (Maribor, YUGO
KRI Nanggala 402
In honor of the 53 souls lost when the Nanggala went down below the waves. May their final voyage be on eternal peaceful seas.
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11th Airborne graduates Camp MacKall
1943 Camp MacKall, 11th Airborne yearbook
Smitty had acquired additional postcards to show the people back home what Camp MacKall looked like. They were in the scrapbook his mother put together and was saved for all these years….
General Order No. 1 listed the original organic units of the 11th Airborne Division, as they moved on with their training, as follows:
Headquarters, 11 A/B Division
Headquarters Company, 11th A/B Division
Military Police Platoon, 11 A/B Division
408th A/B Quartermaster Company
511th A/B Signal Company
711th A/B Ordnance Maintenance Company
221st A/B Medical Company
127th A/B Engineer Battalion
152nd A/B Antiaircraft Battalion
HQ & HQ Battery, 11th A/B Artillery
457th Parachute Field Artillery Battalion
674th Glider Field Artillery Battalion
E. Smith, back row, 5th from the right – HQ Co/187th Regiment
675th Glider Field Artillery Battalion
187th Glider Infantry Regiment
188th Glider Infantry Regiment
511th Parachute Infantry Regiment
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Total = 8,321 men
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Military Training Humor –
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Farewell Salutes –
Ollie Baird – Malin, OR; Civilian, WWII, B-17 production
Nathan Burke – Lubbock, TX; US Navy, Airman
Stanislaw F. Drwall – WV; US Navy, WWII, PTO, USS Oklahoma, Pattern Maker 1st Class, KIA (Pearl Harbor)
James Hawkins – Decatur, IL; US Army, WWII, PTO
Jeffrey Wester “Pug” Lee – Hamilton County, FL; US Army, WWII, PTO, 243rd Port Company Transportation
Dennis Merriman – Chicago, IL; US Army, Korea, 187th RCT
Bruce Meyers – Los Angeles, CA; US Navy, WWII, USS Bunker Hill / invented the dune buggy
Frank Occhiuto – Longmont, CO; US Navy, WWII & Korea, radioman, USS Lowry
Joan Parks – Ypsilanti, MI; Civilian, WWII, Willow Run bomber production
Ramon L. Smith – Knox County, TN; US Army, Korea, Pfc. # 14270116, 50th AntiAircraft Battalion, KIA (No. Korea)
Nicholas J. Valentine – Cassville, WI; US Army, Korea, Sgt. 1st Class, Batt B/57 Field Artillery/7th Infantry Division, KIA (Chosin Reservoir)
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